Question

Are police departments right in suggesting that assertive policing has helped to reduce crime in recent decades?

A. Yes, assertive policing has proven effective.
B. No, assertive policing has little impact on crime reduction.
C. It depends on the specific strategies employed.
D. There is not enough information to make a conclusion.

Answer 1

The impact of assertive policing on crime reduction depends on the specific strategies used. Research shows that community-oriented policing, environmental improvements, and targeted deterrence strategies can be beneficial, while other approaches such as zero-tolerance policies are more contentious.

Step-by-step explanation:

Effectiveness of Assertive Policing

When considering whether assertive policing has helped to reduce crime in recent decades, the most accurate response is that: it depends on the specific strategies employed. Research indicates that tactics such as community-oriented policing, improvements in street lighting, and neighborhood watch programs can effectively reduce crime by increasing police legitimacy and deterring criminal activities.

On the other hand, zero-tolerance policies like Stop and Frisk have received criticism due to similar crime reduction in cities without such policies. There appears to be no simple correlation between harsh penalties, incarceration rates, and the reduction of crime. Moreover, programs like Scared Straight have been shown to increase the likelihood of crime amongst participants.

Strategies that focus on prevention, such as addressing visual blight, improving education, and economic opportunities, can significantly contribute to crime reduction. Certain approaches, like incarceration, may be effective for high-risk offenders but are less effective for other groups or crime types.

Answer 2

The effectiveness of assertive policing in reducing crime rates is still debated. Alternative approaches like community-oriented policing and addressing visual blight have also shown positive results in reducing crime.

Step-by-step explanation:

Police tactics can play a role in reducing crime, but the effectiveness of assertive policing in particular is still a topic of debate. Some argue that assertive policing, such as Stop and Frisk, has helped to reduce crime rates in cities like New York. However, others point out that crime rates have also fallen in cities that don't use assertive policing strategies. Additionally, alternative approaches like community-oriented policing and addressing visual blight have also shown positive results in reducing crime.